Article

Chutes
Abstract : The assessment of standing turning performance is proposed to predict
fall risk in older adults. This study investigated differences in segmental
coordination during a 360 degrees standing turn task between older
community-dwelling fallers and non-fallers. METHODS: Thirty-five older adults age
mean (SD) of 71 (5.4) years performed 360 degrees standing turns. Head, trunk and
pelvis position relative to the laboratory and each other were recorded using a
Vicon motion analysis system. Fall incidence was monitored by monthly
questionnaire over the following 12 months and used to identify non-faller,
single faller and multiple faller groups. RESULTS: Multiple fallers were found to
have significantly different values, when compared to non-fallers, for pelvis
onset (p=0.002); mean angular separation in the transverse plane between the head
and trunk (p=0.018); peak angular separation in the transverse plane between the
trunk and pelvis (p=0.013); and mean angular separation between the trunk and
pelvis (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Older adults who subsequently experience multiple
falls show a simplified turning pattern to assist in balance control. This may be
a predictor for those at increased risk of falling.
CI - Copyright (c) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Langue : ANGLAIS